Driver's License from 17
At 16 1/2 years, apply for the driver's license from 17 (Class B) accompanied driving, and drive with the driver's license from 17 years old
As part of this pilot project, a driver’s license of class B or BE can already be issued from the age of 17. The application can be made from 16 1/2 years, but only with the accompaniment of a legal guardian. The theoretical exam can be taken at 16 3/4, and the practical exam one month before the 18th birthday.
However, the driving license (driver’s license from 17 years old) is subject to certain conditions:
The following documents must be provided:
Driver’s license theory as part of the driving test plays a central role in preparing future drivers for the challenges of road traffic. Acquiring theoretical knowledge is not only a legal requirement but also ensures the safety and responsible behavior of drivers. Here are the key benefits of theoretical training and testing for future road users:
- Identity card or passport
- Photograph (biometric photo)
- Vision test certificate (not older than 2 years)
- Proof of first aid training in life-saving immediate measures
- Identity card or passport
- Photograph (biometric photo)
- Vision test certificate (not older than 2 years)
- Proof of first aid training in life-saving immediate measures
The application for the initial issuance of class B or BE is completed directly at the Citizen’s Office or the Driver’s License Office.
Additionally, the „Application for Participation in the Accompanied Driving Program from 17“ must be filled out, as well as an „Attachment to the Application for Accompanied Driving from 17“ for each companion.
You can print these forms in advance:
| Service | Service Fees (in €) |
|---|---|
|
Application for the initial issuance of a driver’s license of class B or BE
(as part of the pilot project „Driver’s License from 17“)
|
51,10 |
|
Additionally, for each companion
|
5,10 |
Application for the initial issuance of a driver’s license of class B or BE
(as part of the pilot project „Driver’s License from 17“)
For: €51.10
Additionally, per companion
For: €5,10
Further information regarding the companion
Even if the companion is not sitting behind the wheel, they play an important role in road traffic. They are a trusted person, a conversation partner, and silent support – especially in unfamiliar or challenging situations. To ensure this role is successful, there are a few things that companions should know and consider. The following questions and answers provide an overview.
What rules apply to companions while driving?
During the drives, the companion is subject to the 0.5‰ blood alcohol limit and must be free of drugs. The responsibility for ensuring these requirements are met lies with the beginner driver.
Who is allowed to accompany the young drivers?
Most often, a parent accompanies the young driver. However, grandparents, neighbors, or colleagues can also be companions. The condition is that they must be listed in the young driver’s test certificate and the parents must agree. There is no limit to the number of possible companions.
How should a companion best prepare?
Training for companions is not mandatory. However, it is recommended that you prepare for the „Driver’s License from 17“ together with the beginner driver. For example, it can be helpful to drive along once to familiarize yourself with what is being taught in driving school. Your responsibilities will be explained to you, and you will learn how to behave appropriately during the drive.
Why is the accompaniment by adults so valuable?
During the joint driving, young drivers benefit from the experience, calmness, and foresight of experienced adults. They provide the young learners with confidence and help avoid stress. Their presence often makes the participants of the „Driver’s License from 17“ feel safer.
How can you actively support the beginner driver during the drive?
A companion should closely monitor the traffic situation and always be available to offer advice to the young driver. Over 90 percent of „Driver’s License from 17“ participants report being able to approach their companion with questions at any time during the drive. Their guidance often helps the young drivers perceive dangers more clearly. This has a calming effect, especially in challenging situations.
How does the exchange between young drivers and companions take place?
The driver’s license theory on vehicle technology and traffic behavior is crucial for increasing driving safety. Especially the aspects of behavior-related traffic safety, such as proper braking, turning, or lane changing, are covered in the theory. An informed driver will always pay attention to safety aspects that may not be immediately obvious, such as securing child seats or using mirrors correctly.
Prevention of psychological and physical hazards
Companions and young drivers also enjoy sharing their first successes: More than 80 percent of adults praise the learner drivers when they believe they have driven well. Over half of the companions also express criticism about the young driver’s driving style.
How can the companion contribute to improvement?
If they deem it necessary, companions also suggest short breaks and pauses to the young drivers or advise them to slow down. In short, they relieve the young drivers in specific driving situations with valuable tips.
Can a companion intervene in the driving process?
Companions must never intervene in the driving themselves. This could become dangerous for all involved. They are not driving instructors and should not behave as such: after all, the young drivers have already completed their training at the driving school. The companion should always stick to their advisory role and take the young driver’s responsibility seriously, offering trust and support.